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Best Southern American Restaurants in Durham

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of NanaSteak restaurant
1. NanaSteak
4.8
Exceptional(2650)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 31 times today
NanaSteak in Durham offers an exceptional American dining experience that captures the true essence of upscale American cuisine. With its focus on local North Carolina fare, NanaSteak ensures that each dish is crafted with authenticity and flair. Guests rave about the "perfectly cooked" steaks and the "delicious" family-style sides that are more than generous. The restaurant's high-energy atmosphere and impeccable service make it a standout, with many diners claiming it's "likely the best steakhouse in Durham." NanaSteak's award-winning wine list further elevates the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking flavorful, high-quality American cuisine.
A photo of Seraphine restaurant
2. Seraphine
4.9
Exceptional(596)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 19 times today
Seraphine in Durham is a vibrant sanctuary for Contemporary American cuisine, elevating the dining experience with "absolutely amazing" food and an alluring atmosphere. Its menu, celebrated for its authenticity, features standout dishes like the Cajun crab dip, "fantastic fresh oysters," and shrimp and grits that transport diners straight to the heart of America. Visitors rave about the "truly magical" service, with staff members such as Lauren and Eric praised for their attentiveness and knowledge. The restaurant's delightful blend of flavors, paired with a warm, inviting ambiance, makes Seraphine a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional Contemporary American fare.
A photo of Mateo Bar de Tapas restaurant
3. Mateo Bar de Tapas
4.8
Exceptional(2447)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 29 times today
Mateo Bar de Tapas in downtown Durham is a culinary gem, renowned for its exquisite Tapas and Small Plates that marry the vibrant flavors of Spain with the comforting nuances of Southern cuisine. Diners rave about the "inventive and delicious" dishes, with standout favorites like the boquerones, pulpo a la plancha, and the heavenly albondigas with grits and corn. The menu's creativity is matched by its authenticity, making it an exceptional choice for tapas aficionados. The restaurant's ambiance is lively yet warm, and the service is consistently praised as "friendly and knowledgeable," ensuring a memorable dining experience for all.
A photo of Little Bull restaurant
4. Little Bull
4.7
Exceptional(576)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 35 times today
Little Bull in Durham is a shining example of Contemporary American cuisine that beautifully embodies the ever-evolving American identity. Inspired by the diverse palates of first-generation immigrant kids, Little Bull offers a unique and authentic dining experience that transcends traditional labels like "New American." Reviewers rave about the "inventive" and "beautifully plated" dishes, with favorites including the Goat Birria Dumplings and the Arepas. The restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity is evident in every bite, with dishes that are "well cooked, flavorful, and served at just the right temperature." Little Bull is a must-visit for anyone seeking a fresh take on American cuisine.
A photo of Counting House restaurant
5. Counting House
4.3
Awesome(1563)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 30 times today
Counting House in Durham, led by Executive Chef Melanie Wilkerson, elevates Contemporary American cuisine with its seafood-driven menu and bold flavor combinations. Diners rave about the "delicious and fresh" dishes, describing their experience as "fantastic" and "unique." The restaurant's ability to seamlessly combine local cuisine with inventive twists makes it a standout destination. Guests are particularly impressed with the “perfectly prepared” scallops and the “outstanding” shrimp and grits. The ambiance, with its blend of contemporary design and historic charm, complements the culinary artistry, making Counting House a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and memorable dining experience.
A photo of Nanas restaurant
6. Nanas
4.8
Exceptional(406)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 31 times today
Nanas in Durham, North Carolina, is a beacon of exceptional Southern cuisine, offering a delightful homage to its cherished predecessor, Nana’s, while elevating the dining experience. The restaurant’s menu is a testament to Southern culinary artistry, featuring standout dishes like the Twice-Baked Grits Soufflé and Duck Ragout Tagliatelle. Diners rave about the "phenomenal take on classic Southern food," highlighting the "outstanding quality" and "amazing flavors" that define each dish. With locally-sourced ingredients and a wine selection of over 250 labels, Nanas ensures a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative, making it a must-visit for discerning food lovers.
A photo of Fairview Dining Room restaurant
7. Fairview Dining Room
4.8
Exceptional(1900)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 24 times today
The AAA Four Diamond Fairview Dining Room has been reimagined as a lighter, brighter backdrop for our renowned fine dining experience. Featuring custom details hand-crafted for the space by regional artisans, this new design simply enhances what you have loved for years. With the reopening of the new Fairview Dining Room, our Area Executive Chef Troy Stauffer and his imaginative culinary team have introduced a new Fall menu, perfectly complementing the elevated look and feel of the space. Indulge in a savory Cheshire Pork Tenderloin or delicious Duke of Crabcake with a sommelier suggested wine and finish with a decadent hand-crafted dessert from our pastry team, each dish embracing cozy flavors perfect for fall.
A photo of Metro 8 Steakhouse restaurant
8. Metro 8 Steakhouse
4.5
Awesome(929)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 3 times today
Metro 8 Steakhouse in Durham, North Carolina, is a shining example of top-tier American cuisine. Known for its expertly prepared steaks like the Churrasco, described as "incomparable" and cutting "like crusted butter," Metro 8 delivers authentic American flavors with every bite. Guests rave about the "fantastic meal and great service," praising the "friendly" and "professional" staff who make dining a memorable experience. The restaurant's inviting atmosphere complements its menu, featuring classic American steakhouse favorites made with fresh ingredients by skilled chefs. Whether for a date night or a business meeting, Metro 8 promises an exceptional American dining experience.
A photo of Nasher Cafe at Duke University restaurant
9. Nasher Cafe at Duke University
4.7
Exceptional(860)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 23 times today
Nestled in the heart of Durham, Nasher Cafe at Duke University exemplifies the essence of farm-to-table dining, delivering fresh and locally-sourced ingredients right to your plate. This charming cafe not only offers a delightful blend of creative and authentic flavors but also ensures that every dish is crafted with sustainability in mind. Guests rave about the "fresh and delicious" meals, highlighting the exceptional quality of the ingredients. With a backdrop of serene gardens and stunning sculptures, dining at Nasher Cafe is truly an experience where "the food meets the moment," making it a must-visit for those seeking genuine farm-to-table cuisine.
A photo of Peace & Saint - Durham restaurant
10. Peace & Saint - Durham
4.4
Awesome(11)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Durham
Booked 3 times today
Our elevated shisha café lounge inspired by Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean flavors is open 6 days a week, with a full-service bar that invites you to engage in creative pursuits alongside wine, craft cocktails, and specialized hookah flavors. Whether you’re an entrepreneur taking an afternoon meeting on our spacious patio, a designer stretching your creative inspiration beyond office walls, or a lifelong sports fan raising a victory glass, we invite you to our place of peace and genuine connections. Respectfully we are a 21+ establishment. ID is required upon arrival even with reservations.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Nancy
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    What a pleasant brunch! We were seated right away with our reservation and our server greeted us immediately. He provided superior, polite service our entire meal. The food was top notch! The fried green tomatoes were a hit! Everything we had was really good, and at a very reasonable price. Can’t wait to go back!
    More info
    Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen - CaryPrice: Moderate• American• Cary
    •
    4.7
  • RossVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •279 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had a wonderful meal at Mandolin. The service was excellent, as was the food (we both had the lamb dish). Their wine list is first rate, although not inexpensive. Very highly recommended - one of our favorite Raleigh restaurants.
    More info
    MandolinPrice: Moderate• Southern• Raleigh
    •
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Atlanta •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food, fun atmosphere, could work on course pacing, although since it’s tapas it works out
    More info
    Mateo Bar de TapasPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Durham
    •
    4.8
  • JoeVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Fantastic dinner on Valentines Day. Prix Iixe menu was outstanding - something for everyone. Wine pairings were very well done. Enjoyed the entire night. One bit of advice - parking here is at a premium and nearby businesses do not like to share. So, take an Uber/Lyft if you can.
    More info
    NanasPrice: Expensive• American• Durham
    •
    4.8
  • James
    Phoenix / Arizona •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 9 Feb 2025
    Went with my wife. Perfect weather had the doors open really fun.
    More info
    Carolina Brewery - Chapel HillPrice: Moderate• Southern• Chapel Hill
    •
    4.4

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